Lawrence's Euro dream shattered

08 August 2013 02:30 PM

LIAM LAWRENCE'S Champions League dream is over after his club, PAOK, were knocked out at the third qualifying round stage last night.

The former Ireland winger came on as a second half sub for PAOK as they drew 1-1 away to Metalist Kharkiv last night but the Ukrainian club advanced 3-1 on aggregate, though PAOK have the consolation of a place in the Europa League.

Norwegian side Molde, who beat Sligo Rovers in theChampions League second qualifying round, will also enter the Europa League as Legia Warsaw overcame Molde on away goals.

NO PROGRESS IN LONG TALKS

WEST BROM have yet to make any progress in contract talks with Ireland star Shane Long.

The Tipperary man was back in Ireland this week, scoring for the Baggies in a 6-0 win over his old club Cork City in a friendly, and while Long is under contract until the end of this season, nothing has been agreed on a new deal.

"I am concentrating on playing for West Brom and we will see where the contract talks go in the future," said Long.

"It's up to the club and agents to sort out other things and I won't let it faze me."

RYAN SIGNS WITH HOOPS

FREE AGENT Richie Ryan has returned to the League of Ireland, signing a deal with Shamrock Rovers.

Ryan went to Dundee United, where he played for two years, following a three-year stint at Sligo Rovers, but left the Scottish club at the end of last season.

"I'm very happy to have signed and I'm excited to get started now," said the 28-year-old.